Quote: This is clearly one of those "builders choice" items. I've built them both ways and can't really tell any difference in how they ran. Two things worth considering. One: these tensioners were intended to be used with stock type link chains which have a much smoother back than the double rollers typically used in performance builds. 2nd. If you do decide to use one it may not be a bad idea to drill the 4th. bolt hole in the tensioner [ use a standard cam retainer for a template ] and use a bolt with an 1/8 in. hole drilled through the center in the lower left [ looking at it from the front ] bolt hole. This bolt goes through the front of the block and sits in a pocket in the cam valley that collects oil. This would allow oil to drip directly onto the chain and possibly improve wear.
that is some really good advice
If I go the tensioner route I'll be sure to do this...thanks!
